- Do you understand the case of Roe v. Wade,” which guarantees abortion in the US and which the Supreme Court can overturn
The protests, which have been called nationwide, come in response to a leaked press draft of a final decision by which the United States’ highest judiciary, with a conservative majority, is to consider overturning the decision in Roe v. Wade of 1973, which guaranteed legal access to abortion across the country.
USA: Possible annulment of abortion rights provokes protests
“We speak out today to say loud and clear: don’t touch our bodies,” tweeted the Women’s March, one of the organizations calling for the protests.
1 in 3 protesters gather during an abortion rights rally outside Manhattan federal courthouse. — Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
Demonstrators gather during a proabortion rights rally outside Manhattan Federal Courthouse. — Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
Around 450 demonstrations are planned across the country, with large demonstrations in Washington, New York, Chicago, Austin and Los Angeles. In the capital, the demonstration is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. local time (3:00 p.m. Brasília time) and will lead to the headquarters of the Supreme Court. At least according to the organizers 17,000 people.
2 of 3 protesters on the National Mall in Washington. — Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
Demonstrators on the National Mall in Washington. — Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
The possible annulment of the case law Roe v. Wade could be reflected in November’s midterm elections, which are at stake for control of both houses of Congress. Democrats have taken steps to enshrine abortion rights in federal law, in an attempt to weaken Republicans ahead of the election on a deeply divisive issue.
The Women’s Health Protection Act, passed by the House of Representatives, guarantees health professionals the right to abortions and patients the right to have abortions. However, Senate Republicans declined to vote on the measure earlier this week.
3 of 3 A protester holds a sign that reads “Protect Roe V Wade” in Chicago this Saturday (14). — Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
A protester holds a sign that reads “Protect Roe V Wade” in Chicago this Saturday (14). — Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
Additionally, GOPcontrolled states have sought to limit abortion rights in recent months, and repealing the 1973 decision would give more freedom to limit or ban the procedure.
However, the legislative outcome does not reflect American public opinion at large: a new poll by website Politico and Morning Consult shows that 53% of voters think Roe v. Wade must not be knocked over. In addition, 58% think it is important to choose a candidate who supports access to abortion.
(With information from AFP)